Learn & Explore/Programs & Initiatives/Marine Management Areas
Marine Management Areas
Protected marine zones designed to conserve ecosystems while supporting responsible use.
What “MMA” Stands For
MMA stands for Marine Managed Area. These are specific zones in state marine waters that are designated by statute or administrative rule to manage both human activities and marine resources—including marine life, habitats, and sometimes cultural or historical assets.
About Marine Managed Areas
- MMAs are legally defined geographic areas aimed at managing marine, estuarine, or anchialine resources and their use.
- They may serve multiple purposes: conservation of marine life (e.g., mammals, fish, invertebrates, algae), protecting habitats, resolving user conflicts, and preserving cultural or historical sites.
- Within the MMA category, Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) are a subset focused on protecting and enhancing ecosystems. MPAs vary in restrictions—from sustainable fishing allowances to full “no-take” zones like Marine Life Conservation Districts (MLCDs).
Hawaiʻi Marine Life Conservation Districts
- Confirms that MLCDs are a type of MMA, designed to conserve and replenish marine resources by limiting or prohibiting fishing and consumptive uses.
- They give marine life a protected space to grow and reproduce, often increasing biodiversity and visitor experience.
Coral Reefs | Managing Reefs
- Reiterates the MMA definition: areas designated to manage marine resources and uses, potentially addressing user conflicts and preserving culturally or historically significant sites.
- Confirms MPAs as a subset of MMAs, including MLCDs with various levels of restrictions.
Coral Reefs | Monitoring
- While not explaining the MMA acronym, it references monitoring efforts within “marine protected areas”, including tracking the success of specific MMAs like the Kahekili Herbivore Fisheries Management Area.
Understanding Hawai‘i’s Marine Zones
These terms explain the different types of protected ocean areas and what they mean for you.
Term
What It Means
Example in Hawai‘i
What You Can Do
Why It Matters
MMA (Marine Managed Area)
A special ocean zone with rules to protect marine life, habitats, and cultural sites.
Kahekili Herbivore Fisheries Management Area (Maui)
Fishing allowed, but you cannot take certain species like herbivorous fish.
Keeps reefs healthy by protecting fish that control algae.
MPA (Marine Protected Area)
A type of MMA focused on protecting ecosystems. Rules vary by location.
Waikīkī-Diamond Head Shoreline Fisheries Management Area
Some fishing allowed, but with gear and species restrictions.
Helps fish populations recover and supports sustainable use.
MLCD (Marine Life Conservation District)
The most protected type of MMA. Often “no-take” zones—no fishing or collecting.
Hanauma Bay (O‘ahu)
No fishing or collecting. Snorkeling and swimming are allowed.
Gives marine life a safe place to grow and reproduce, boosting biodiversity.
Tips for Visitors
- Look for signs: Rules change by area.
- Respect the ocean: These protections keep Hawai‘i’s reefs and fish healthy for future generations.
- Plan ahead: Check DLNR’s website for maps and regulations before you go.
